Davies: We play with pride in jersey

Director of Rugby Phil Davies talks about the European clash with Toulon

Director of Rugby Phil Davies has called on his Cardiff Blues to show their 'pride in the shirt' when they face champions Toulon in the Heineken Cup at the Arms Park on Saturday (kick-off 1.35pm).

Blues picked up a try bonus point in defeat to Exeter Chiefs last weekend in a display that boss Davies branded 'not good enough' and he has now called for a big reaction in a massive test.

French giants Toulon, who claimed the European title last season, are next up this weekend and the biggest crowd of the season at the Arms Park is guaranteed with tickets selling fast all week ahead of the big kick-off.

Davies admitted his players would relish the occasion and has called for them to come out firing from the start.

He said: "We've talked this week about the pride in the shirt and the history and what it stands for. The responsibility we have all got to perform and get results.

"After the weekend we were hurting, we know the performances have been not good enough in patches. What we need is more consistency.

"The players have been phenomenal this week. I want to see a performance at the weekend of pride and I wants us to walk away knowing we have done a good job. A win would be sensational.

"What we are trying to do here is create an environment that is elite and can produce winning teams," he added.

"With the coaching, we want those that add value to the system and develop players. There have been discussions about changes with Gareth Baber leaving and other areas too.

"It's a shame that it has come on the back of last Sunday, but there have been lots of things on-going with the coaching side and recruitment. We are constantly looking to improve all areas.

"We've made a lot of changes in my time here. We've looked at the culture, the standards we set and understanding what being involved with Cardiff Blues is all about.

"It's a great team and region; we are all very privileged to be here. Now we have to move on and over the next couple of weeks we have the chance to get the right coaching structure to move the team forward.

"We are looking forward and we have a great game at the weekend against the champions. It's a turbulent time but we have got to keep going forward.

"We've got to fine tune things - it's not about radical changes. You have got to be patient doing this job and you have got to be strong doing this job. That's what we intend to do and get the best people in and be as strong and consistent as we can.

"My main focus is to make sure we are mentally ready. Technically and tactically we have been growing. Consistency is a huge factor and it takes time, but we have got to get on with it and start to deliver."

Tickets for the big European clash with Toulon are selling FAST! Don't delay! Call the Ticket Office today on 02920 302030 or click HERE to buy online.

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